South Korea has reported a surge in measles infections this year. Health officials say most of these cases stem from overseas travel.
According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), 68 cases were confirmed through early August, up from 47 during the same period last year. More than 70% of patients contracted measles abroad, with Vietnam accounting for the largest share. Additional cases were traced to travelers returning from South Africa, Uzbekistan, Thailand, Italy, and Mongolia.
Secondary transmission within households and medical facilities added nearly 20 cases. Adults made up most infections, while more than half of the patients had no vaccination record. Experts state that measles is among the most contagious respiratory illnesses, with over 90% of unvaccinated people becoming infected after exposure.
Globally, outbreaks are spreading across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, prompting renewed vaccination drives. The KDCA urged travelers to confirm their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination status before departing.
Officials advised anyone who develops a fever, rash, cough, runny nose, or red eyes within three weeks of returning from overseas to seek medical care promptly, avoid contact with others, wear a mask, and inform doctors of recent travel.
Authorities reiterated that two doses of the MMR vaccine remain the most effective safeguard.